We have no doubts about the city's sincere reaction to the untimely death of a dog that was being walked in a city park Sunday, Jan. 4. The 95-pound Golden Retriever was killed when its head became caught in a beaver trap placed in a hole in an embankment in the city park. We also don't question the city's original intent - to rid the pristine park of a nuisance animal.

But, we do believe that signage should have warned the general public about the trapping activity and its location. It then becomes the visitor's responsibility to shy away from that area, if need be.

While it might be unlikely that a small child or adult would ever stumble into becoming a similar victim, the horror of the possibility looms in our minds. We certainly have one pet owner who is suffering the consequences.

•Tomahawk officials in a decision-making capacity, and the various departments within, deserve to be commended for holding the line on taxes. But, we hope their efforts are never at the expense of public safety.

The Tomahawk Police Department has been short-handed since the June retirement of long-time employee Larry Bromberek. Some might argue there was a shortage of manpower even before that time. Add to that a request by the city Finance Committee to cut spending by 4 percent.

Police Chief Don Johnson has forwarded statistics that show crime in Tomahawk rose by 42 percent between 1999-2002. Among his biggest concerns is the violent crime rate, which Johnson says is three times higher than that of any agency in a three-county area. He also points out that Tomahawk falls behind in the number of full-time law enforcement employees per 1,000 residents.

Overtime, undoubtedly is a burden in most police departments, but it shouldn't dictate coverage. And a reduction in services has been occurring, we've been told. The city Police and Fire Commission will act tomorrow night on extending a formal offer of employment to a new officer. We hope this person eases some of the policing pressure and the minds of the general public who need and deserve to feel secure.

It is indeed sad to hear about the trapping accident that left an pet owner with out thier friend. But instead of putting up signs that say "DANGER - trapping is in effect", perhaps one that says that Tomahawk has a Leash Law and you are required to control your pet in such a manner at all times - and I might add, especaily in a public park. If this person would have been walking her dog in compliance of the laws, then there would have been no problem.

Now before you go hounding me (pardon the pun) about being an insensitive jerk, let it be known that I too am a pet owner, and I am even a trained k-9 handler with Headwaters Search and Rescue, and I am a huge advocate for responsible pet ownership. However, and correct me if I am wrong, it is currently illegal for a pet owner to let thier dog "run free" within the City of Tomahawk, and I would add, especially in Bradley park. Seems to me that we are advocating corecting the wrong problem.

*** The opinions expressed herein are uniquely MY OWN and should not be construed as an endorsement of any sort by my employers or of any professional associations to which I hold membership. I can dig myself into holes just fine without their help, thank you very much***

From what I have read on this issue I would say that several trapping laws were violated. Including trap size, Type of set and placement of set. These are all laws out of the city of Tomahawks controll will there be any tickets issued?

My heart breaks for the dog owner. Whether the dog was on a leash or not, it didn't have to die in such a painful way. Besides that, should the beavers have to suffer that way, as well? I don't claim to be an animal rights activist, but some things are simply inhumane.